ISHPEMING, MI – 11/20/2014 – A 30-game win streak isn’t even on Coach Jeff Olson’s mind. He’d trade every win he could just to win the next two. Obviously there’s talent on this roster, nobody can dispute that. It’s when talent meets talent, however, that good coaching comes through. Jeff Olson coached the class of 2014 to two state championships and saw them depart. Where many would expect a drop-off, even a slight one, Coach Olson went back to work with a good core of players. Bringing back players who play on the line is such an advantage, especially when players at the skill positions come in with a good attitude to match up with their athleticism.
Players like Ozzie Corp and Ozzy Hakkarinen are as dynamic backfield that you’re going to find in the state of Michigan. The defensive line and linebacking corps are strong in Ishpeming, but the secondary should get its credit too. They stay very disciplined, and know their assignments. They don’t get beat deep, but at the same time are ready to come up into the hole and make the hit on a ball carrier.
The Hematites are in their third straight state semi-finals game, and fourth time in five years. This is truly a great time period in Ishpeming sports. There haven’t been many dynasties like this around the area. This one could be the best around. Menominee’s run in the late 2000’s was up there, and now they’re back to prominence. Crystal Falls Forest Park with coach Santilli has had great success, making seven state title games from 2000-2009, but they only came out with the one championship (2007). Should Jeff Olson win this title, he would probably have the greatest coaching resume in MPC History, let alone the UP.
So enjoy it Hematite fans. It really is something you’ll want to be a part of, whether it’s now or in the future. The Hematites will be facing off against the Saginaw Michigan Lutheran Seminary Cardinals this Saturday at 2pm. You can catch all of the action starting at 1:30pm on 98.3 WRUP with Mike Plourde and Bob Nadeau.
-Carl Leander Johnson